Rita Marcalo received a grant from the Arts Council England to produce the stage show, entitled Involuntary Dances, in which she attempted to induce a seizure with the use of strobe lights, fasting, sleep deprivation and raising her body temperature.[6] She stopped taking anticonvulsant medication during November 2009 in preparation for the show on 11 December.[2] The show was scheduled to last for up to 24 hours, and members of the audience, who must be over 18, were encouraged to film using their camera phones, if a seizure occurred.[7]
The planned show drew criticism from Epilepsy Action, with chief executive Philip Lee quoted as saying that many members would find the show "inappropriate", and voicing his concerns about the danger of stopping medication to induce a fit.[7]
The Arts Council England defended their decision to give the grant for this show, explaining that "the grant supports an innovative and regional artist. Her project explores a disability issue and is a culmination of extensive research supported by the arts and science industries."[7] The Arts Council also stated that they have ensured that a full risk assessment of the project is undertaken and that medical support is present during the performance.[8]
Rita Marcalo herself stated that, while a fit is private in her own life, in art she can make it public. She was aiming to raise awareness of epilepsy by making it visible.[7]